Birthday weekend

Birthday weekend - trip to Manchester to see the Cycling

George headed up to London on Thursday to meet a friend from Spain. On Friday she took train from Euston to Stafford.

Jayne & I headed off Friday afternoon and after a very slow trip picked up George at Stafford. Checked into hotel and then went to restaurant Friday night. Huge traffic jam and were late. Restaurant was Michal Caines at Abode in Manchester. Food was great, although dessert a bit of a let down. Place was a bit too 'buzzy' to appreciate nice food.

Saturday & Sunday spent at Manchester Velodrome. Really exciting time. Met Chris Hoy. Drove back Sunday night - home about 9:00

Rufus' first birthday

End of British Summer Time so an extra hour in bed.

Iced chocolate cake for Rufus' 1st birthday. George made trifle. Went around to James & Lisa's for Rufus bithday party. 30 or so people at the party. Lots of sandwiches & cake :-)

George & I watched a couple of episodes of Heroes in front of a fire.

Car into service

100,000 mile service for Lupo. Still going OK.

Penny, Chris & Kate for dinner. Menu was:

• Spicy squash soup
• Mushroom & chicken risotto
• Date & apple creme brulee with apple crisps
• Flourless chocolate brownies

Had to be careful with menu - Penny doesn't eat wheat, Chris doesn't eat red meat or shellfish

Last day for Kiruba

Took Jayne to hospital in Bristol to see about knee.

It was Kiruba's last day at work today. He worked for me since August 2005. He is going to Apertio in Bristol as a programme manager. Lunchtime drink at local pub.

School half term for next 2 weeks

Chris here

James & Lisa for lunch

James, Lisa, Cicile & Rufus for lunch. Normal affair. Beautiful warm day - last of the summer.

Paris for UQS workshop